Hero receives vital support

ZEE, 64, FROM COGGESHALL, HAS BEEN AN EASTLIGHT RESIDENT FOR ALMOST 18 YEARS. IN THAT TIME, HE HAS BECOME A WELL-KNOWN MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY.

Working as a store detective, Zee has appeared in local newspapers for supporting his local community – from collecting vouchers for a pensioner who had her purse stolen, to helping catch thieves who robbed local charity donation bins.

However, Zee’s most recent act of courage was one he is still feeling the effects of today. Two years ago, while he was working, Zee noticed a man approaching a teenage girl.

Speaking to the Colchester Gazette, Zee said: “There was a 17-year-old who was crossing the road, and the man was just behind her. Suddenly, he tried to remove her scarf and managed to punch her in the back of the head.”

Zee ran over to help the girl and confront the man, who then proceeded to assault Zee, leaving him with a broken shoulder. Taken to hospital for treatment, Zee is still living with his injury and is scheduled to receive surgery.

Forced to step away from work while he recovers, Zee accrued more than £2,000 in arrears. This prompted Eastlight’s Income Manager, Andrea, to reach out and see what support could be provided. After hearing about his situation, she helped Zee secure a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) from Braintree Council and organised care via Age UK. He also began receiving Universal Credit.

These much-needed funds were able to clear his arrears and help him meet his day-to-day needs. Zee said: “My money situation left me struggling to pay my bills and feed myself and my pet cats. For a few weeks, I was only eating rice and frozen vegetables.

“I suffered physically, mentally and financially from this injury, especially as I have no family in the UK. I had a sister who lived abroad, but then she sadly passed away just months after my injury. It made my life hell.

“The support I received from Eastlight has been above and beyond. I am very proud to live in a community where we have amazing people at Eastlight that take the safety and mental wellbeing of residents seriously. I am forever grateful for all they’ve done.”

Income Manager, Andrea, added: “It’s been really lovely speaking with Zee. He is a really nice gentleman and has been so humble and polite throughout our contact.

“I was very glad to have supported in clearing his rent arrears and putting him in contact with Age UK so that he now has the care he needs.”